australia and our culture of violence

Australia has embraced a culture of violence fueled by alcohol and drug abuse and a breakdown of both family values and respect for others.

Add to that the desensitizing of our young as a result of films, TV and computer games and the result has been an acceptance that violence in our society, our communities and our country is common place.

Violence is costing Australian's not only their lives on an almost daily basis, it is also costing hundreds of millions if not billions of dollars in medical expenses, lost work hours and not to mention the psychological and other damage done to victims.

A national approach is desperately needed with an enquiry at the highest level (Royal Commission) in order to identify the causes, and seek a way out from the malaise we have put ourselves in.

This today from WAToday

Police officer rushed to hospital after mass brawl
ANDREW NELSON
February 18, 2010
http://www.watoday.com.au/wa-news/police-officer-rushed-to-hospital-after-mass-brawl-20100218-oeyq.html

A police officer is one of four people who have been taken to hospital after a fight in Queens Park last night.

Sergeant Julie Hanson said a group of about 15 men of African appearance were loitering in a park opposite a home on George Street about 10pm.


She claimed the fight erupted after one man started to interfere with a car.

The owner of the car, a George Street resident, confronted the men and found himself surrounded by the group.

A 78-year-old man came out of the same house and was punched to the head, Sergeant Hansen said.

Police were called and one officer injured his knee and was taken to Royal Perth Hospital after chasing one of the offenders who tried to flee the scene.
6PR radio reported the elderly man was taken to hospital and required ten stitches to a head wound.


Police arrested nine people over the fight, seven remain in custody to be interviewed.